Wigan replace prized Jewell

Wigan Athletic FC have appointed Chris Hutchings as their new manager after Paul Jewell resigned just a day after keeping the club in the Premiership as the English season ended in dramatic fashion.

Six seasons
The 42-year-old Jewell oversaw 127 victories in his 291 games in charge over six seasons at the JJB Stadium. During that time, he steered the club from the third tier to the Premiership, winning promotion in 2004/05. Wigan then finished tenth in the first top-flight campaign in their history before preserving their status on Sunday with a 2-1 win at Sheffield United FC which condemned their opponents to relegation on goal difference. Jewell's assistant Hutchings had previously replaced him at Bradford City FC before their 2000/01 Premiership campaign but was sacked that November after a poor run of form.

'Fantastic' spell
Wigan chairman Dave Whelan said: "I would like to thank Paul for six fantastic years at Wigan Athletic. As well as a manger he has become a very good friend and I am very sorry to lose him. What he has done for Wigan is unbelievable." Regarding Hutchings, he described him as "very knowledgable" and said he would be of immense value to the club in the coming campaign. "I have every confidence that he will push the club on and that we will climb the Premier League," Whelan added.